Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 July 2016
58. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her plans to develop musical education and make instruments available to young persons and the general population through facilitating schools, youth groups and libraries in enhancing their music resources and the provision of access to musical training and instruments for the benefit of local communities. [19866/16]
View answerMy Department funds the Music Capital Scheme, which is designed to assist individuals and groups to purchase musical instruments and is administered by the Music Network on behalf of my Department. Further details in relation to the Music Network and its schemes are available at www.musicnetwork.ie.
In addition to this initiative, my Department provides funding to Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, the largest organisation in the State involved in the preservation and promotion of Irish traditional music. Comhaltas operates various educational programmes in music, song and dance in all parts of Ireland where people of all ages are given the opportunity of developing their artistic abilities.
The Arts in Education Charter has been a landmark development in relation to the promotion of arts education and arts in education in Ireland. The Charter is an initiative of my Department and the Department of Education and Skills, working in association with the Arts Council. Among other initiatives, the Charter has led to the development of the Arts in Education Portal, which provides a resource where artists and teachers can be supported and inspired.
Other relevant initiatives include Music Education Partnerships in association with Music Generation and funding and support provided by the Arts Council. It should be noted that music education in schools is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Education and Skills.
